“A Christmas Carol” plays Dec. 19, 20 in Port / By Martha Knight

Charles Dickens penned his classic novella in 1843, and Cora Wilson Greenwood adapted it for the stage in 1938. Since then there have been many takes on “A Christmas Carol,” but the traditional play is still a favorite, and the one director Jared Empson chose to present this holiday season in Coudersport and Port Allegany.

It opened Friday night to appreciative audiences in the Coudersport High School auditorium, and will be conclude this year’s run at the Port Allegany High School auditorium next Thursday and Friday nights.

“This is a play that can be enjoyed by multiple generations. It is ageless, and age appropriate for children,” Empson points out.

The cast of 16 includes some newcomers to the stage, as well as some Potter-McKean Players regulars. Unlike many Players offerings, this one is not a musical.

Dickens wrote of the haves and the have-nots, a subject that still resonates today, and referred to as the one percent and the 99 percent, or discussed in terms of the Occupy movement.

But the play Empson and his cast are presenting focuses on a man who has lost touch with his better self. The milk of human kindness has curdled. But then something magical, mystical, miraculous, having to do with the Christmas Spirit, happens.

Advance tickets are available at Port Pharmacy, First National Bank (main and branch offices), and Citizens and Northern Bank, as well as at Buchanan Pharmacy, Laurelwood Inn, First National Bank, Haubers and State Farm Insurance in Coudersport.

Performances will be at 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, December 19 and 20 in the Port Allegany High School Auditorium.

Tickets purchased at the door, will cost $10 for adults and $6 for students. But tickets bought in advance are priced at $8 and $5 respectively.